Patricia Maree Ellis, 59, Browns Plains Coles worker in court for stealing $7k

On 68 occasions over six months, a 22-year employee of a Logan Coles subtly stole $50 to $100 from the till until she had amassed over $7,000, a court has heard.

Patricia Maree Ellis, 59, leaving Beenleigh Magistrates Court.

On 68 occasions over a six-month period, a 22-year employee of a Logan Coles subtly stole $50 to $100 from the till until she had amassed over $7,000.

Patricia Maree Ellis pleaded guilty in Beenleigh Magistrates Court on December 7 to stealing from a clerk or servant.

The court heard that the 59-year-old Victoria Point mother worked at Browns Plains Coles for 22 years but was struggling financially and her hours were being cut.

In order to make ends meet, Ellis began hiding $50 to $100 every time she would balance the tills at the end of a shift.

She hid the money under the till between January 25 and June 25 until her total reached $7,850

The store eventually noticed there was a discrepancy in the figures and reviewed the CCTV footage, which revealed Ellis’ offending.

Defence lawyer Greg Lutvey said Ellis was struggling with money and saw an opportunity.

“She had financial issues, her car had broken down and was resentful the store had reduced her hours,” he said.

“Ms Ellis had no criminal history and the behaviour was very out of character.”

Magistrate Mark Howden said Ellis’ behaviour was aggravated because of her responsibility as a Coles employee.

“You were in a position of trust and reduced hours or financial troubles were no excuse,” he said.

“It gives me no pleasure to see people like you with otherwise good character before the courts.”

Ellis was sentenced to nine months prison, wholly suspended for 18 months.